Executives from European companies have called for a 2030 climate and energy framework that has an ambitious renewable energy target, including binding national goals.

In January, the European Commission revealed its proposed 2030 framework, which seeks a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 40% below the 1990 level and would set a renewables target of "at least" 27% by 2030. However, the European Wind Energy Association had argued that the latter goal is too weak.

At a “2030 EuropeBusiness" event in Brussels, CEOs from Acciona Energia, Alstom, Enercon, ERG Renew, RES Med and Vestas have now also called for a stronger renewables target. The six companies are part of a coalition of 91 companies and organizations and have signed a business statement.

"We welcome the European Commission's commitment to a post-2020 climate and energy policy, which includes a renewable energy target. However, it doesn't go far enough," the CEOs declared. "That is why we encourage EU Heads of State to support the European Parliament's call for binding national renewable energy targets as well as at least the 30 percent overall target. Doing so will contribute to increasing EU employment, energy security and technology leadership.”